Mercedes-Benz is one of the most well-known auto manufacturers in the world, and continues to rival other automotive giants with their innovative designs and engineering. Unfortunately, all cars have their shortcomings and common problems they run into. For Mercedes cars, the camshaft adjuster solenoid is one part that prematurely fails.

If you’re not sure what a camshaft adjuster solenoid is or does, then don’t panic. In this article, we’ll go over what this basic part does for your Mercedes, what you should look for when the part begins to fail, and how you can maintain your Mercedes to avoid this common issue. Let’s start with the basics:

What is a Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid?

As part of the variable valve timing (VVT) system, the camshaft adjuster solenoid is responsible for allowing oil to adequately flow through the VVT system upon it’s engagement. The VVT system engages to deliver extra power to the vehicle when it’s traveling under added stress, such as when it is carrying a larger, heavier load, or when traveling uphill. Since the solenoid is necessary in order to allow oil to lubricate the timing chain and gears, if oil cannot reach these parts then too much friction can cause them to wear out quickly. This can lead to engine failure and expensive repairs.

Most Common Occurrences

Not all Mercedes vehicles experience a problem with the camshaft adjuster solenoid failing prematurely; however, the most frequently documented occurrences take place in the Mercedes-Benz E350 from the years 2006-2012, but has also been documented in models like the C230. Failure usually occurs well before the 100,000 mile mark, which is generally too soon for this part to require replacement. Mercedes has addressed the issue, giving specific replacement and repair instructions for the various codes the engine emits when encountering this problem.

Most Common Symptoms Associated with Failure

It’s important to keep an eye out for the various symptoms your Mercedes may exhibit when it encounters camshaft adjuster solenoid failure. At the first sign of problems, it’s critical to bring your car to a Mercedes specialist to properly diagnose the issue and get the problem fixed right away.

Check-Engine Light

Whenever your car’s check-engine light illuminates, you shouldn’t overlook it. The check-engine light emits a code that your reliable Mercedes specialist will read with special equipment. Since Mercedes has addressed the solenoid failure issue, your automotive specialist will likely follow the instructions for repair designated by the manufacturer.

Lowered Fuel Efficiency

Solenoid failure can also lead to diminished fuel efficiency. When the variable valve timing system cannot function properly, and valves open and close at improper times. This leads to engine performance and fuel consumption becoming significantly inefficient.

Contaminated Engine Oil

While the faulty solenoid won’t likely cause engine oil to become contaminated, the reverse may be true. If you haven’t kept up on your Mercedes’ routine oil care and filter changes, the dirt and debris buildup can keep the oil from properly flowing through your engine. This can lead to damage of the VVT system, which can cause the solenoid to fail. If your engine oil is dirty, this could be the original cause of the problem.

Rough Idling

If the solenoid is not letting the appropriate amount of oil into the system, then too much or too little oil could cause the engine to idle roughly. This can cause clogs if there is too much oil, and too little oil can cause corrosion and premature wear to the various components within the engine.

How We Can Help You

The Mercedes experts here at Das European Autohaus, serving clients from the areas of Spring and Houston, TX, are familiar with the camshaft adjuster solenoid failure issue in various Mercedes models. Since we have diagnosed and treated this problem many times, we have the experience and qualifications necessary to restore your Mercedes back to its original self. As Houston’s leading European auto specialists, we provide expert-quality services at a much lower rate than nearby dealerships and specialty shops. If you’re experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms of solenoid failure in your own Mercedes, please call us right away to help prevent your engine from incurring further damage.

* Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG image credit goes to: twstipp.

* Mercedes-Benz on Asphalt Road image credit goes to: kurmyshov.